Gujarat, India: The daily administration of cannabis leaf-derived powder is associated with reduced pain, anxiety, and depression in patients with cancer, according to clinical trial data published in the journal Ayu.
A team of researchers from Gujarat Ayurved University in India assessed the safety and efficacy of a prepared cannabis mixture in 24 subjects with cancer. Subjects consumed capsules containing 250mgs of powder derived from dried leaves of the female cannabis plant three times daily for four weeks.
Researchers reported that cannabis treatment was associated with a statistically significant reduction in pain and anxiety, along with the mitigation of several other symptoms, including depression, appetite loss, and insomnia. Participants also experienced a significant improvement in their overall quality of life.
Authors concluded, "Administration of cannabis leaves powder … for a period of one month significantly relieves pain, anxiety, and depression of cancer patients without creating any major side effects, dependency and withdrawal symptoms."
Full text of the study, "Management of chronic pain with Jalaprakshalana (water-wash) Shodhita (processed) Bhanga (cannabis sativa L.) in cancer patients with deprived quality of life: An open-label single arm clinical trial," appears in Ayu.